In a word, The Relevant is about survival and the forces that impede your ability to do that. At first I thought that this seemed like a Bourne Identity film set in the past. Why? Because, the stakes were high, staying alive is paramount, and there is one nemesis after another trying to cut you down in the most aggress way. Tell me you don’t agree with this assessment. The Revenant literally means return, and Hugh Glass/Leonardo DiCaprio returns from near death to find his son’s killer. Glass/DiCaprio is seeking utter vengeance, so he has to survive despite the elements, a group of Native Americans, the French, and a totally evil person, who is in his own expedition.

I thought the storyline was somewhat predictable, what made it fascinating was the acting by Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hardy, and Domhnall Gleeson. Grunting and heavy breathing aside on Leonardo’s part, he was believable and engaging. I think, because I love Tom Hardy (Mad Max: Fury Road; The Drop (one of my all time favorites)), I focused a lot on his character, John Fitzgerald. Tom Hardy has a unique way of acting. He is engaging, and different, without being over the top. He either has a quiet strength, an inner demon, or a heart of gold. Talk about being able to do totally believable accents!

I have just become familiar with Domhall Gleeson. He first came to my attention on Star Wars: The Force Awakens. He had a small part in that film, but he made me notice him. In The Revenant, he stood out, not just because of his red hair, but because he depicted a man who had to do a very hard job in the most adverse conditions, with hard core heathens.

Why is The Revenant relevant today? It reminded me of the warring factions around the world. One little spark, and humanity ignites into religious wars, land grabs, and resource wars. This film has all the best of humanity, and the worst. It shows tolerance of other cultures, but it also shows hatred and violence. It shows respect for nature, and the destruction of it (beaver pelts).

I HAVE to mention the cinematography! I felt like I was in the woods in the snow, a blizzard, and frigid water. It even felt like I was wanting to stay warm and dry. And no, it wasn’t in 3D or IMAX. The scenes of the trees, the river, and the sky were breathtaking. I urge you to see this film just for that feature alone.